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CHARLESTON, W.Va. — Proving that manufacturers can adapt to any challenge, the West Virginia Manufacturers Association held its ninth annual Marcellus and Manufacturing Development Conference (MMDC) in the midst of a global pandemic – thanks to video conferencing technology.
The conference, originally slated for April 20-21 in Morgantown, instead was staged via video conference over a three-week period that concluded May 5.
“When the coronavirus emergency really hit the U.S. in March, we had to find a new way to make MMDC happen. Thankfully, the WVMA leadership and our sponsors were committed to this event,” said WVMA President Rebecca McPhail. “It is vitally important for us all to continue focusing on West Virginia’s natural gas industry and the downstream development and manufacturing opportunities it presents.”
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WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) today spoke with members of the West Virginia Manufacturers Association (WVMA) on a teleconference call to provide an update on the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak. During the call, Senator Capito heard from manufacturers about their concerns, answered questions, and provided an update on how the third coronavirus relief package—which passed the Senate Wednesday evening—will aid them during this uncertain time.
“Whether large or small, manufacturers in West Virginia will find relief in the Phase Three deal. There’s no question the coronavirus has taken a hit on our economy, and West Virginia businesses are feeling the effects. We want to make sure employers and employees have the resources they need to rebound and stay connected through this uncertain time, and that’s exactly what the recent relief package we passed will do,” Senator Capito said. “I thank the WVMA for taking the time to discuss with me their concerns and needs, and for their willingness to step up to produce needed supplies during this time.”
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CHARLESTON, W.Va. – West Virginia Manufacturers Association is applauding an impactful donation to the fight against coronavirus from one of its member companies.
ND Paper has donated 1,500 Tyvek suits and 30,000 surgical masks to West Virginia health care providers who are on the front lines of testing and treating citizens for the COVID-19 virus.
“ND Paper is showcasing the best of what manufacturers have to offer America during this time of need. This donation will help protect those workers who are working tirelessly to keep the rest of us safe,” said WVMA President Rebecca McPhail.
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Governor Justice Executive Order No. 9-20
(see section h. specific to manufacturing operations)
The United States Coronavirus is a rapidly developing situation that requires an abundance of caution and preparation. We have been contacted by many with questions about what other companies are doing in response to the issue as well as what to expect relative to upcoming WVMA meetings and events. The best and most current information we have as to what member companies are doing is as follows:
1. The severity of COVID-19 is not to be underestimated. Social isolation is an important component as to slow the transmission of this virus and not overwhelm our healthcare system.
2. Many employers are now preparing for employees to work from home or tele-commute in some way.
3. Gatherings, including meetings and assemblies of people, are now being cancelled or postponed.
4. Health officials in West Virginia believe that the coronavirus will be identified in the state in the coming days.
5. All employers are encouraging people who may be ill to please go home, stay home and seek medical attention if deemed necessary.
The WVMA will provide timely updates in response to the developing situation. We will also monitor the situation related to our April 20-21 MMDC and provide alerts and notices accordingly. If you would like more information on the coronavirus and what you can do to be proactive.
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What is the Coronavirus (COVID-19)
The Coronavirus (COVID-19) is a virus strain that is primarily spread through respiratory droplets. Symptoms include fever, cough, runny nose and difficulty breathing and typically occur two to fourteen days after exposure.
Prevention
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 15-20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use a hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
- Avoid close contact (within 6 feet) with people who are sick.
- Stay home when you are sick.
- Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
- Standard household cleansers and wipes are effective in cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched objects and surfaces.
Steps and Tips for Employers
- Encourage employees to stay home if they are ill
- Regularly clean commonly shared surfaces within the workplace
- Emphasize preventative measures in the workplace such as hand washing, etc.
- Employers cannot require a medical exam unless it is job related and consistent with business necessity
- Ensure tele-work agreements are updated
- Have employees take laptops/work home if there are remote-job capabilities
Service Directory
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- US DOT Expands Natl. Emergency Declaration for Commercial Vehicles Delivering Relief in Response to the Coronavirus Outbreak
- Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has established a toll free hotline at 1-877-831-2250 for anyone seeking inquiries pertaining to FMCSA
- Coronavirus Fighting Products
- Coronavirus Fighting Products FAQs
- SC Dept. of Insurance – Business Interruption Insurance Coverage
As many states reopen, the WVMA is flagging best practices sheets put together by the NAM’s Manufacturing Leadership Council for your reference and use:
- Hygiene Checklist
- How to Reduce Anxiety
- Sick Employee Chart
- Temperature Screening Guide
- Travel Guide
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- The President’s Coronavirus Guidelines for Amerca: 15 Days to Slow the Spread
- CDC
- CDC Interim Guidance for Businesses and Employers
- OSHA
- OSHA Guidance on Preparing Workplaces for COVID-19
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- Johns Hopkins Interactive Map
- EPA’s Registered Antimicrobial Products for Use Against Novel Coronavirus SARS-CoV-2
- Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency: Risk Management for Coronavirus
- CISA – Cybersecurity for Telework
- Electric Companies and Pandemic Planning – Edison Electric Institute
- NCSL – State Action on COVID-19 (helpful for those that have operations in multiple states)
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